Hoi An Lanterns: Best places to see, festival guide & Travel tips

by Tina Nguyen May 5, 2026 1438

More than just decorations, Hoi An Lanterns reflect the town’s rich trading history, traditional craftsmanship, and local beliefs about luck, peace, and happiness. Whether you are visiting for the famous full moon festival, searching for the best photo spots, or joining a lantern making class, these lanterns are an essential part of the Hoi An experience. In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about Hoi An Lanterns, including their meaning, history, best places to see them, and practical travel tips for your trip.

What are Hoi An lanterns?

Hoi An lanterns are one of the most iconic symbols of Hoi An, known for their colorful glow and handcrafted beauty. These traditional lanterns can be seen hanging throughout the Ancient Town, lighting up streets, shopfronts, cafés, bridges, and riverside walkways every evening. For many visitors, seeing hundreds of lanterns illuminate the old town is one of the most memorable experiences in central Vietnam.

What makes Hoi An lanterns special is the way they are made. Unlike mass-produced lanterns found in many destinations, most lanterns in Hoi An are still handmade by local artisans using bamboo frames, silk fabric, and traditional techniques passed down through generations. They often come in lotus, diamond, garlic, and round shapes, each adding a unique decorative touch.

Another reason why Hoi An lanterns are so popular is their connection to culture and atmosphere. They are not only decorations but also represent luck, happiness, and harmony in local tradition. Combined with the yellow heritage buildings and peaceful riverside setting, the lanterns create a magical scene that attracts photographers, couples, and travelers from around the world.

Today, many international visitors search for Hoi An lanterns because they want to experience the famous night scenery, attend the lantern festival, buy handmade souvenirs, or join lantern-making workshops during their trip.

History of Hoi An lanterns

The history of Hoi An lanterns dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when Hoi An was a busy trading port where foreign traditions blended with local culture, eventually turning lanterns into the town’s most famous symbol.

Origins from Japanese and Chinese traders

During the golden age of maritime trade, merchants from Japan and China settled in Hoi An and brought the custom of hanging lanterns outside homes, temples, and shops. Lanterns were used to provide light at night and were believed to attract luck, peace, and prosperity. Local craftsmen later adapted these ideas using bamboo frames and silk fabric, creating the handmade style now known as Hoi An lanterns.

How lanterns became a symbol of Hoi An

Lanterns became a symbol of Hoi An through cultural preservation and tourism development. As the Ancient Town was restored, traditional lanterns replaced much of the modern signage and became a key part of the streetscape. Their warm glow, vibrant colors, and connection to local heritage helped Hoi An lanterns become one of the most recognized travel images in Vietnam.

Meaning of Hoi An Lanterns

The meaning of Hoi An lanterns is rooted in Asian beliefs about light, fortune, and harmony. For generations, lanterns in Hoi An have not only decorated streets and homes, but also represented wishes for a better life. Each lantern glowing above a doorway or across an alley traditionally carries hopes for luck, peace, prosperity, and family happiness. That is why lanterns remain one of the most meaningful cultural symbols in Hoi An today.

Symbol of luck and happiness

One of the most common meanings of Hoi An lanterns is good luck and happiness. In traditional belief, a brightly lit lantern welcomes positive energy into a home or business while pushing away darkness and misfortune. This is why many shop owners in the Ancient Town hang red or yellow lanterns outside their entrances year-round.

During special occasions such as Lunar New Year, grand openings, weddings, or family celebrations, even more lanterns are displayed because they are thought to attract success, joy, and abundance. For local families, hanging lanterns is a way of expressing hope that the coming months will be peaceful and prosperous.

For travelers, this can be felt in the atmosphere of the old streets. Rows of glowing lanterns make the town feel cheerful, festive, and inviting, even on an ordinary evening.

Light, hope and family reunion

Lanterns also symbolize light in a deeper sense. In earlier centuries, before modern electricity, lanterns guided people through dark streets and riverside paths at night. Because of this, they became associated with guidance, safety, and hope during uncertain times.

Today, that meaning still remains. The warm light of Hoi An lanterns often represents brighter days ahead, emotional warmth, and a calm state of mind. Their gentle glow creates a peaceful environment that encourages people to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Lanterns are especially meaningful during full moon nights and family gatherings. When homes and streets are lit together, they represent reunion, connection, and gratitude. Many locals see lantern light as a reminder that family members, no matter how far apart, always belong together.

Colors and their meanings

The color of a lantern can also express different wishes and emotions. In Hoi An, seeing many shades together is part of what makes the streets feel vibrant and symbolic.

Red – the most traditional lucky color, symbolizing celebration, wealth, success, and strong positive energy. Often used during festivals and weddings.
Yellow – associated with happiness, prosperity, royalty, and warmth. It matches the golden walls of Hoi An beautifully.
Blue – represents peace, trust, calmness, and emotional balance. Often gives a softer and elegant look.
Pink – linked with romance, affection, gentleness, and kindness. Popular for decorative corners and photo spots.
White – symbolizes purity, sincerity, simplicity, and new beginnings.
Green – connected to growth, health, renewal, and harmony with nature.

When these colors shine together at night, Hoi An lanterns create more than a beautiful view. They turn the Ancient Town into a place filled with wishes, memories, and living tradition.

Where to see the most beautiful Hoi An lanterns

The most beautiful Hoi An lanterns can be seen throughout the Ancient Town after sunset, when streets, bridges, riverside paths, and old yellow buildings begin to glow with hundreds of colorful lights. While lanterns appear in many corners of Hoi An, some places are especially famous for their atmosphere, photo opportunities, and vibrant night scenery.

Hoi An Ancient Town at night

The heart of the lantern experience is the Ancient Town at night. As daylight fades, the old streets come alive with rows of red, yellow, blue, and silk lanterns hanging above shopfronts and alleyways. The warm lights against historic yellow walls create one of the most iconic scenes in Vietnam.

This area is perfect for slow evening walks, street photography, and relaxing at cafés with balcony views. Many visitors choose to wander without a plan, simply enjoying the glowing streets, traditional architecture, and peaceful charm that make Hoi An lanterns so unforgettable.

An Hoi Bridge Area

Located across the Hoai River, the area around An Hoi Bridge offers a more energetic nightlife atmosphere. This side of town is lively, crowded, and filled with restaurants, bars, dessert shops, and street vendors.

From here, you can enjoy views back toward the lantern-lit Ancient Town while standing near the water. The bridge itself becomes especially beautiful in the evening, surrounded by reflections and colorful lights from both sides of the river.

Nguyen Phuc Chu Street

Nguyen Phuc Chu Street is one of the most famous streets to admire Hoi An lanterns. Long rows of lanterns are often suspended overhead, creating a tunnel-like effect that feels magical after dark.

This street runs along the riverside and is lined with cafés, tailor shops, and souvenir stores, making it a favorite for visitors who want classic lantern photos. It is especially popular during the lantern festival and early evening golden hour.

Thu Bon River Riverside

The riverside along the Thu Bon River offers one of the most romantic ways to enjoy Hoi An lanterns. At night, the colorful lights from buildings and streets reflect beautifully on the calm water, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

You can walk beside the river, sit at a café terrace, or take a small boat ride for a different perspective. Many travelers consider this the best place to experience the peaceful side of Hoi An after the crowds begin to slow down.

Lantern shops and workshops

Some of the most authentic lantern experiences can be found inside local lantern shops and workshops around Hoi An. These spaces are often filled floor to ceiling with handmade lanterns in different shapes, sizes, and colors.

Visitors can watch artisans at work, learn about bamboo frames and silk coverings, or join a lantern-making class. Compared with busy streets outside, these workshops offer a quieter and more traditional setting to appreciate the craftsmanship behind Hoi An lanterns.

Best time to see Hoi An lanterns

The best time to see Hoi An lanterns is in the evening after sunset, when the Ancient Town begins to glow with hundreds of colorful lights. While lanterns can be seen throughout the year, the atmosphere changes depending on the time of day, season, and festival dates. Choosing the right moment can make your visit far more memorable.

Every evening after sunset

For most travelers, the ideal time to enjoy Hoi An lanterns is every evening between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. This is when daylight fades, shops switch on their lanterns, and the streets become bright without feeling too late or overcrowded.

Around 6 PM, the sky is often still slightly blue, creating a beautiful contrast with the warm lantern glow. This is a great time for photography, especially along riverside streets and historic yellow buildings. By 7 PM to 9 PM, the town feels livelier, with more visitors, street performers, cafés, and boats on the river.

If you prefer a calmer experience, arrive around sunset and walk before peak crowds build.

Full Moon Lantern festival

One of the most magical times to experience Hoi An lanterns is during the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival. On these nights, many electric lights in parts of the Ancient Town are dimmed or turned off, allowing traditional lanterns and candlelight to become the main source of illumination.

This creates a softer, more nostalgic atmosphere that feels closer to old Hoi An centuries ago. Streets fill with glowing lanterns, floating candles on the river, cultural performances, and families gathering to celebrate. Compared with regular evenings, the town feels more symbolic, festive, and unforgettable.

If your schedule allows, planning your trip around a full moon night is highly recommended.

Best months to visit

The best months to see Hoi An lanterns with comfortable weather are generally February to April. During this period, temperatures are pleasant, humidity is lower, and rainfall is usually limited, making evening walks much more enjoyable. June to August is also a popular travel season thanks to sunny days and summer holidays. Lantern nights remain beautiful, but the town can be busier, hotter, and more crowded, especially in the evenings.

During the rainy season, usually from around September to January, lanterns still shine beautifully, but weather conditions can affect your plans. Heavy rain or flooding may limit walking routes, so it is wise to check forecasts before visiting. On light rainy nights, however, reflections on wet streets can create some of the most atmospheric lantern photos in Hoi An.

Hoi An Lantern Festival guide

The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most special cultural experiences in Hoi An. Held on every full moon night, the festival transforms the Ancient Town into a glowing celebration of light, tradition, and community spirit. Streets become more atmospheric, electric lighting is reduced in some areas, and colorful lanterns take center stage.

What happens during the festival

During the festival, visitors can experience a more traditional and festive side of Hoi An. One of the most popular activities is releasing floating lantern candles on the Hoai River. These small candle-lit lanterns are often sent onto the water with wishes for luck, peace, and happiness.

The streets also become livelier with folk art performances, including traditional music, dance, and cultural shows that reflect the heritage of central Vietnam. Depending on the month, you may also see calligraphy displays, local games, or craft demonstrations.

Another highlight is the busy Hoi An Night Market, where food stalls, handmade souvenirs, snacks, and lantern shops attract both locals and travelers. The mix of glowing lanterns, street food aromas, music, and riverside views creates one of the most memorable nights in Hoi An.

Lantern festival dates (2026 Schedule)

The Hoi An Lantern Festival is usually held on the 14th day of each lunar month, the night before the full moon. This is when the moon is brightest and the Ancient Town celebrates with traditional lantern displays and cultural activities.

Hoi An Lantern Festival 2026 Schedule

Month	Lunar Date	Estimated Gregorian Date (2026)
January	14th day, 12th lunar month	January 31, 2026
February	14th day, 1st lunar month	March 2, 2026
March	14th day, 2nd lunar month	March 31, 2026
April	14th day, 3rd lunar month	April 29, 2026
May	14th day, 4th lunar month	May 28, 2026
June	14th day, 5th lunar month	June 27, 2026
July	14th day, 6th lunar month	July 26, 2026
August	14th day, 7th lunar month	August 24, 2026
September	14th day, 8th lunar month	September 23, 2026
October	14th day, 9th lunar month	October 22, 2026
November	14th day, 10th lunar month	November 20, 2026
December	14th day, 11th lunar month	December 20, 2026

Note: Festival activities may vary slightly each month depending on local planning, weather, and public holidays. It is always best to confirm locally before your visit.

Join a Hoi An Lantern Making Class

Joining a Hoi An lantern making class is one of the best ways to experience the culture behind the town’s most famous symbol. Instead of only admiring the colorful lanterns hanging across the Ancient Town, visitors can learn how they are carefully handcrafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Most classes begin with a short introduction to the history and meaning of Hoi An lanterns, followed by a hands-on workshop led by local artisans. You will usually learn how to shape the bamboo frame, stretch fabric over the structure, choose colors and patterns, and assemble your own lantern step by step. Many workshops also offer foldable lantern designs, making it easy to pack and bring home as a souvenir.

A Hoi An lantern making class is suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a more interactive activity beyond sightseeing. It is also a great indoor option during hot afternoons or rainy weather. By the end of the session, you not only leave with a handmade lantern, but also with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that makes Hoi An so special.

Prices for a standard Hoi An lantern making class usually range from VND 300,000 to VND 500,000 per person, depending on workshop location, class duration, lantern size, and whether hotel transfers are included. Private or premium classes with personalized guidance may cost more.

For a smooth and stress-free experience, guests staying at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness can contact the Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness Travel Desk for support with booking a trusted Hoi An lantern making class. The team can help arrange suitable time slots, recommend quality workshops, provide clear pricing options, and organize convenient round-trip transportation, so you can simply relax and enjoy the experience.

FAQs about Hoi An Lanterns

If you are planning a trip to Hoi An, these frequently asked questions can help you better understand Hoi An lanterns, the best times to visit, and what to expect during your experience in the Ancient Town.

Lanterns are an integral part of Hoi An's identity. (Source: Vntrip) — Lanterns are an integral part of Hoi An’s identity. (Source: Vntrip)

Why is Hoi An famous for lanterns?

Hoi An is famous for lanterns because they are a long-standing symbol of the town’s trading history, cultural heritage, and traditional craftsmanship. Hundreds of colorful lanterns hanging across the Ancient Town create a magical atmosphere that has become one of the most recognizable travel images in Vietnam. They also reflect the blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences that shaped Hoi An over centuries.

Are lanterns lit every night in Hoi An?

Yes, Hoi An lanterns are lit every night, especially throughout the Ancient Town, riverside streets, bridges, shops, and restaurants. The best time to see them is usually after sunset from around 6 PM to 9 PM, when the streets glow most beautifully. During holidays and festival nights, the lantern displays often feel even brighter and more festive.

Is the lantern festival worth visiting?

Yes, the Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most memorable times to visit the town. On full moon nights, many electric lights are reduced in some areas so traditional lanterns and candlelight can take center stage. Visitors can enjoy floating lanterns on the river, cultural performances, local games, and a lively night market.

Can I bring lanterns home on a plane?

Yes, many travelers buy Hoi An lanterns as souvenirs and take them home by plane. Most shops sell foldable bamboo-frame lanterns that collapse flat, making them easy to pack inside luggage. Smaller sizes are the most convenient, while larger lanterns may need extra wrapping or hand-carry transport.

Where can I take the best lantern photos?

Some of the best photo spots for Hoi An lanterns include the Ancient Town streets after dark, Nguyen Phuc Chu Street, the riverside along Thu Bon River, and near An Hoi Bridge. Yellow heritage walls, glowing alleyways, and reflections on the water create stunning night photos. For fewer crowds, arrive just after sunset or later in the evening.

Hoi An Lanterns are far more than beautiful lights hanging across old streets. They represent centuries of cultural exchange, skilled craftsmanship, and the timeless spirit of Hoi An. From peaceful riverside evenings to lively full moon celebrations, the lanterns create unforgettable memories for every visitor.

Author

Tina Nguyen

Tina Nguyen is a travel and hospitality writer based in Hoi An, sharing first-hand local guides for Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness. From hidden beaches and authentic street food to wellness escapes and the best times to visit, she helps travelers experience the real charm of Central Vietnam — written from someone who calls it home.

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Hoi An Lanterns: Best places to see, festival guide & Travel tips

What are Hoi An lanterns?

History of Hoi An lanterns